Darren memorial
bench is unveiled

Darren's dad Graham and brother Calvin (front) with others who attended the dedication of the bench.

Published:12:30Friday 25 November 2011

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FAMILY and friends of Black Watch soldier Darren Lackie have ensured the brave lance corporal’s memory will live on in his hometown of Cupar.

Dad Graham and brother Calvin were among those who came together to unveil a picnic bench in tribute to Darren at a moving dedication ceremony in the Haugh Park.

The 21-year-old died tragically while on holiday in Portugal earlier this year and now has a fitting memorial thanks to the hard work and generosity of local people.

HONOUR

Money for the bench was raised by the Darren Durrant Lackie Memorial Fund set up in his honour, which also has the wider aim of enhancing the wellbeing of young people in Cupar.

Fund organiser and family friend Rod Whyte said: “Personally I hope this bench will be well used by all who knew Darren and hopefully help them to reflect on the happier memories they each have of him.

“I also hope it will act as a kick start which will allow the fund to achieve our goal in helping other organisations.”

Darren died in April from head injuries sustained while on holiday in the Algarve with his girlfriend.

Hundreds of mourners turned out at his military funeral in Cupar’s St John’s Church.

Darren’s brother Ben has also joined the army and was with mum Helen in Leeds when the dedication ceremony took place.

The fund set up in Darren’s memory currently sits at around £4500 following a number of fund-raising events held over the past eight months.

Tickets are on sale for a Christmas prize draw with a top prize of £200, while tickets for ‘Darren’s Big Thank You Bash’ to be held at Watts on December 17 will be on sale soon.

They can be purchased from any committee member, including Mr Whyte at whyterk@gmail.com

Mr Whyte added: “As our charter states, we are trying to establish a common good fund furthering the wellbeing of young citizens from toddlers to teens.

“This may take the shape of assisting for example a playgroup or even an outdoor pursuits organisation — it can take many forms and in the new year we will be in a position to accept requests in writing to start this process, thus creating Darren’s legacy.”